Umbrella apparatus

ABSTRACT

A lawn or patio umbrella with an integral lighting system that utilizes cold cathode ray tubes, light emitting diodes (LED&#39;s), or florescent lights, to provide relatively bright outdoor light for reading and other activities that require relatively high light intensities is provided. In one embodiment, a modular, electrically powered lawn or patio umbrella in which lighting systems, such as those utilizing cold cathode tubes, LED&#39;s, or florescent lights; cooling systems, such as those utilizing electric fans or misting systems; and motorized retraction systems; can be selectively interchanged is provided.

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 60/267,018, filed 7 Feb. 2001, titled “Lighted PatioUmbrella Apparatus;” and of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/335,933,filed 2 Nov. 2001, titled “Outdoor Lighting Systems with Cold CathodeTubes.”

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates in general to patio umbrellas, andin particular, to an improved patio umbrella with integral lightingsystem and other modular electronic systems and components.

[0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art

[0005] There has been a recent increase in the interest in entertainingin a lawn and garden environment. Patio furniture is quite popular anduseful for outdoor entertaining, especially in portions of the countrythat have warmer climates. However, the sun often presents an impedimentto such outdoor entertaining. Consequently, sales have increased forrelatively large patio and table umbrellas for use in shielding orshading table areas and people sitting around the tables from directexposure to the sunlight. Given the relatively high degree of interestin patio umbrellas, it is likely that improved umbrellas, or umbrellaswith enhanced functions, will be well received in the marketplace.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] It is one objective of the present invention to provide a lawn orpatio umbrella with an integral lighting system that utilizes coldcathode tubes, light emitting diodes (LED's), or florescent lights, toprovide relatively bright outdoor light for reading and other activitiesthat require relatively high light intensities.

[0007] It is another objective of the present invention to provide an alawn or patio umbrella with an integral lighting system that utilizescold cathode tubes, LED's, or florescent lights, to provide relativelybright outdoor light, and its own rechargeable power supply, includingsolar cells.

[0008] It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide alawn or patio umbrella with an integral lighting system that utilizescold cathode tubes, LED's, or florescent lights, to provide relativelybright outdoor light, and a motorized retraction system that aids inopening and closing the umbrella.

[0009] It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide alawn or patio umbrella with an integral lighting system that utilizescold cathode tubes, LED's, or florescent lights, to provide relativelybright outdoor light, and a cooling system, such as one that utilizeselectric fans or misting systems.

[0010] It is yet another objective of the present invention to provide amodular, electrically powered lawn or patio umbrella in which lightingsystems, such as those utilizing cold cathode tubes, LED's, orflorescent lights; cooling systems, such as those utilizing electricfans or misting systems; and motorized retraction systems; can beselectively interchanged.

[0011] The above objects are achieved, for example, by integrating arechargeable power system, a lighting system, a motorized retractionsystem, and/or a cooling system into a relatively large patio umbrella.The resulting umbrella does not have to be connected to a householdelectrical system, is a relatively low power consuming device, does notgenerate much heat, provides a high amount of light intensity, reducesthe overall energy consumption of outdoor lighting, allows for fewerbatteries to be utilized in each lighting fixture, allows for easierrecharging of the batteries due to the lower power requirements, andallows the utilization of smaller photovoltaic solar cells.

[0012] In the embodiment that utilizes a cold cathode tube, oneadditional advantage is that the cold cathode tube may be operated atmultiple voltage levels to provide differing amounts of light output. Inone particular embodiment, a wireless receiver and transmitter pair maybe utilized to allow an operator to use a wireless command signal tochange the operating state of the lighting system, such as switching thesystem between an on and off condition, and switching the system betweenvarying levels of light output. Accordingly, an operator may intensifythe light output from the lighting system through use of a wirelesshandheld transmitter when he wants additional light from a particularumbrella.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] The novel features believed characteristic of the invention areset forth in the appended claims. However, the invention itself, as wellas a preferred mode of use and further objectives and advantagesthereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detaileddescription of the preferred embodiment when read in conjunction withthe following drawings.

[0014]FIG. 1 is a fragmentary and sectional view of the preferredembodiment of the lighted umbrella with motorized opening and closingsystem according to the present invention.

[0015]FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C are pictorial, fragmentary, and section viewsof an alternate embodiment of the present invention which is directed toa lighted umbrella with a stand and a single battery and removable basecover.

[0016]FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 3C are pictorial, fragmentary, and partialsection views of another alternate embodiment of the present inventionwhich is directed to a lighted umbrella with a stand, charger,batteries, and removable battery cover.

[0017]FIG. 4A is a fragmentary and sectional view of another alternateembodiment of the present invention which is directed to a lightedumbrella with recessed lighting.

[0018]FIG. 4B is a fragmentary and sectional view of another alternateembodiment of the present invention which is directed to a lightedumbrella with integral misting system.

[0019]FIG. 4C is a fragmentary and sectional view of another alternateembodiment of the present invention which is directed to a lightedumbrella with an integral fan system.

[0020]FIG. 5A is a block diagram representation of the motorized openingand closing system of the umbrella of FIG. 1 and of the otherembodiments of the umbrella of the present invention.

[0021]FIG. 5B is a block diagram representation of an alternateembodiment of the motorized opening and closing system of FIG. 5A.

[0022]FIG. 6 is a simplified schematic of an alternative embodiment ofthe present invention which is directed to a lighted umbrella with atop-mounted power unit and a cold cathode tube lighting system.

[0023]FIG. 7 is a simplified schematic of an alternative embodiment ofthe present invention which is directed to an umbrella with atop-mounted power unit and an electric fan cooling system.

[0024]FIG. 8 is a simplified view of an alternative embodiment of thepresent invention which is directed to an umbrella with a top-mountedpower unit and a mist producing cooling system.

[0025]FIG. 9 is a simplified schematic of an alternate embodiment of thepresent invention that is directed to an umbrella with a top-mountedpower unit and a motorized opening and closing system.

[0026]FIG. 10 is a schematic of one broad implementation of the presentinvention.

[0027]FIG. 11 is a block diagram representation of the presentinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] Referring to FIG. 1 in the drawings, one embodiment of anumbrella apparatus according to the present invention is illustrated.Umbrella apparatus 11 includes an umbrella portion 13 and a hollowtubular pole portion 15. Pole portion 15 is coupled to and supportsumbrella portion 13. Umbrella portion 13 is preferably retractable andmay be moved between a raised, or expanded open position, which isshown; and a lowered, or retracted, closed position in which umbrellaportion is collapsed down about pole portion 15, as is conventional. Aflexible canopy 17 is attached to and covers umbrella portion 15. Canopy17 is supported by a plurality of rib members 19, 21, 23, and 25. Ribmembers 19, 21, 23, and 25 are preferably hingedly coupled to poleportion 15 at an upper portion of pole portion 15. An integral lightingsystem 26 is carried by at least one of rib members 19, 21, 23, or 25.Lighting system 26 provides high intensity light to umbrella apparatus11 and the surrounding area. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, lightingsystem 26 preferably utilizes a cold cathode tube which will bedescribed in greater detail herein.

[0029] Umbrella apparatus 11 may include a base member adapted toreceive pole portion 15 and to support umbrella apparatus 11 in agenerally upright position. Although not shown in the embodiment FIG. 1,other embodiments of the present invention depict a variety ofconventional and novel base members, any of which may be utilized withthe embodiment of FIG. 1. It should be understood that in all of theembodiments of the present invention discussed herein, umbrellaapparatus 11 may be used with little or no base member whatsoever,provided there is a table or some other support structure, including theground, which may be adapted to receive pole portion 15. For example,many patio tables are designed with central apertures to receive,support, and stabilize relatively large umbrellas. In some cases, thepatio tables eliminate the need for a base member all together.

[0030] In accordance with the preferred embodiment of the presentinvention, light system 26 includes a plurality of light strands 27, 29,31, and 33 attached to rib members 19, 21, 23, and 25. Each light strand27, 29, 31, and 33 includes electrical wiring 39 which conductivelyconnects a plurality of small cold cathode tube light bulbs together forproviding the high intensity light under canopy 17 and in the areasurrounding umbrella apparatus 11. A wiring ring 37 secures and locateselectrical wiring 39 of light strands 27, 29, 31, and 33, so thatelectrical wiring 39 may be passed through the hollow interior of poleportion 15 to a power source, as will be described in detail below.

[0031] Umbrella apparatus 11 includes an optional opening and closingsystem 40 that aids in expanding umbrella portion 13 into the opencondition and retracting umbrella portion 13 into the closed condition.Opening and closing system 40 includes a cable system 41, a gear andpulley system 43 housed in a crank case 44, and a manual crank 45. Crankcase 44 is preferably located on pole portion 15 such that crank case 44is accessible when umbrella portion 13 is in the fully retractedposition against pole portion 15. Cable system 41 is coupled between ribmembers 19, 21, 23, and 25 and gear and pulley system 43, and ispreferably disposed within the hollow interior of pole portion 15.Manual crank 45 is coupled to gear and pulley system 43 so as to allowmanual opening and closing of umbrella portion 13.

[0032] Opening and closing system 40 may be automated by the inclusionof an electric screw driver motor 49, or other similar relatively smalldiameter motor assembly, and one or more operational switches 47. Motor49 is preferably disposed within the hollow interior of pole portion 15and is coupled to gear and pulley system 43. Operational switches 47 arepreferably carried by crank case 44, and include one or more switchesfor controlling the operation of motor 49. With the inclusion of motor49, a user may expand and retract umbrella portion 13 simply by pressingthe appropriate operational switch 47. This feature is particularlyadvantageous when used with large umbrellas which may be relativelyheavy and awkward to operate, or when the user lacks sufficient strengthto expand or retract umbrella portion 13.

[0033] Umbrella apparatus 11 includes a power system 50 having a powersource 55. In this embodiment, power source 55 is preferably disposed inthe hollow interior of pole portion 15 at a lower extremity andcomprises one or more rechargeable batteries 55 a. A releasable end cap57 having integral ground connectors is provided at the lowermostportion of pole portion 15 to complete the electrical circuit of powersystem 50 and to allow access to rechargeable batteries 55 a, asrechargeable batteries 55 a may have to be periodically replaced. Powersystem 50 provides electrical power to lighting system 26 and openingand closing system 40. An external power system charger 51 iselectrically coupled to power system 50 to aid in repeatedly chargingrechargeable batteries 55 a. As is shown in FIG. 1, an external adapter60 may be provided. External adapter 60 includes a relatively small plug59 that is adapted to be conductively received by external power systemcharger 51, an extension cord 61, an electrical transformer 63, andterminals 65 that allow transformer 63 to be plugged into a conventionalAC wall outlet. This allows power system charger 51 to receive powerdirectly from a conventional AC wall outlet in order to rechargerechargeable batteries 55 a.

[0034] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention, an alternative power system charger 62 may be provided.Alternate power system charger 62 includes at least one solar cell 35carried by an upper cap portion 64. Solar cells 35 are conductivelycoupled to power system charger 51 via wires (not shown) that passthrough the hollow interior of pole portion 15, thereby allowing solarcells 35 to provide an electrical charge to recharge rechargeablebatteries 55 a, provided sunlight falls upon solar cells 35. Becausesolar cells 35 provide continuous recharging throughout the daylighthours, the amount and frequency of charging power system 50 withexternal power system charger 60 may be minimized. It is important tonote that locating alternate power system charger 62 atop umbrellaportion 13 is unique and advantageous, particularly when alternate powersystem charger 62 includes solar cells 35 or other types of solar energycollectors. Such location limits the visibility of alternate powersystem charger 62 and ensures that solar energy collection is maximized.

[0035] The embodiment depicted in FIG. 1 is advantageous over the priorart in that it provides a number of useful functions. Umbrella apparatus11 is lighted by lighting system 26 which does not require continuousaccess to a conventional AC wall outlet, while providing high intensitylight. This allows umbrella apparatus 11 to be placed in a relativelyremote lawn or garden locations that are away from, or substantiallyremoved from, conventional AC power outlets. During daylight hours,solar cells 35 provide a continuous trickle charge to rechargerechargeable batteries 55 a, thereby reducing the need for and frequencyof use of external power system charger 60. However, when an electricalcharge is needed, external power system charger 60 may be utilized todirectly charge power system charger 51. Of course, a conventionalextension cord may be used, thereby eliminating the need to moveumbrella apparatus 11 from its remote location to a location near an ACpower outlet.

[0036] Referring now to FIGS. 2A-2C in the drawings, another embodimentof the present invention is illustrated. In this embodiment, an umbrellaapparatus 111 includes an umbrella portion 113, a pole portion 115, astand portion 118, and a base portion 120 adapted to house arechargeable power system 151. Umbrella apparatus 11 includes a lightingsystem 126 and may include a motorized opening and closing system 140.Umbrella portion 113 is preferably retractable and may be moved betweena raised, or expanded open position, which is shown; and a lowered, orretracted, closed position in which umbrella portion is collapsed downabout pole portion 115, as is conventional. A flexible canopy 117 isattached to and covers umbrella portion 115. Canopy 117 is supported bya plurality of rib members 119, 121, 123, and 125. Rib members 119, 121,123, and 125 are preferably hingedly coupled to pole portion 115 at anupper portion of pole portion 115. An integral lighting system 126 iscarried by at least one of rib members 119,121, 123, or 125. Lightingsystem 126 provides high intensity light to umbrella apparatus 111 andthe surrounding area. In the embodiment of FIGS. 2A-2C, lighting system126 preferably utilizes a cold cathode tube which will be described ingreater detail herein.

[0037] Lighting system 126 includes a plurality of light strands 127,129, 131, and 133 attached to rib members 119, 121, 123, and 125. Eachlight strand 127, 129, 131, and 133 includes electrical wiring 139 whichconductively couples a plurality of small cold cathode tube light bulbstogether for providing the high intensity light under canopy 117 and inthe area surrounding umbrella apparatus 111. A wiring ring 137 securesand locates electrical wiring 139 of light strands 127, 129, 131, and133, so that electrical wiring 139 may be passed through the hollowinterior of pole portion 115 to a power source, as will be described indetail below.

[0038] Umbrella apparatus 111 includes an optional opening and closingsystem 140 that aids in expanding umbrella portion 113 into the opencondition and retracting umbrella portion 113 into the closed condition.Opening and closing system 140 includes a cable system 141, a gear andpulley system 143 housed in a crank case 144, and a manual crank 145.Crank case 144 is preferably located on pole portion 115 such that crankcase 144 is accessible when umbrella portion 113 is in the fullyretracted position against pole portion 115. Cable system 141 is coupledbetween rib members 119, 121, 123, and 125 and gear and pulley system143, and is preferably disposed within the hollow interior of poleportion 115. Manual crank 145 is coupled to gear and pulley system 143so as to allow manual opening and closing of umbrella portion 113.

[0039] Opening and closing system 140 may be automated by the inclusionof an electric screw driver motor 149, or other similar relatively smalldiameter motor assembly, and one or more operational switches 147. Motor149 is preferably disposed within the hollow interior of pole portion115 and is coupled to gear and pulley system 143. Operational switches147 are preferably carried by crank case 144, and include one or moreswitches for controlling the operation of motor 149. With the inclusionof motor 149, a user may expand and retract umbrella portion 113 simplyby pressing the appropriate operational switch 147. This feature isparticularly advantageous when used with large umbrellas which may berelatively heavy and awkward to operate, or when the user lackssufficient strength to expand or retract umbrella portion 113.

[0040] Umbrella apparatus 111 includes a power system 150 having a powersource 155. In this embodiment, power source 155 is preferably adaptedto be conductively coupled to base portion 120 and comprises arechargeable battery pack 155 a, preferably an 18-Volt rechargeablebattery pack. Battery pack 155 a is preferably the type of rechargeablebattery that is utilized with most modern cordless power tools, such asdrills, saws, and sanders. Battery pack 155 a is adapted to berepeatedly recharged by plugging battery pack 155 a into a conventionalcharger (not shown) that is plugged into a conventional AC power outlet.Power system 150 provides electrical power to lighting system 126 andopening and closing system 140.

[0041] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention, an alternative power system charger 162 may be provided.Alternate power system charger 162 includes at least one solar cell 135carried by an upper cap portion 164. Solar cells 135 are conductivelycoupled to power system 150 via wires (not shown) that pass through thehollow interior of pole portion 115, thereby allowing solar cells 135 toprovide an electrical charge to recharge rechargeable battery pack 155a, provided sunlight falls upon solar cells 135. Because solar cells 135provide continuous recharging throughout the daylight hours, thefrequency with which battery pack 155 a must be replaced or rechargedmay be minimized. It is important to note that locating alternate powersystem charger 162 atop umbrella portion 113 is unique and advantageous,particularly when alternate power system charger 162 includes solarcells 135 or other types of solar energy collectors. Such locationlimits the visibility of alternate power system charger 162 and ensuresthat solar energy collection is maximized.

[0042] Stand portion 118 includes an upright shaft portion 170 having acentral aperture 172 that is adapted to receive the pole portion 115 ofumbrella apparatus 111. A plurality of screw clamps 174 and 176 areprovided to secure pole portion 115 within shaft portion 170. A bottomportion 146 is provided to stabilize umbrella apparatus 111 whileumbrella apparatus 111 is installed within stand portion 118.

[0043] Base portion 120 includes a removable cylindrical sleeve 156, aremovable cover 160, and a receiver 168. Sleeve 156 is configured toslip over the exterior of shaft portion 170, and includes a longitudinalslot 158 that allows access to screw clamps 174 and 176 when sleeve 156is placed over shaft portion 170. Slot 158 also allows access to aconnector 166 disposed in the lower portion of pole portion 115 whensleeve 156 is placed over shaft portion 170. Connector 166 isconductively coupled to the wires from alternate power system charger162 and solar cells 135. Cover 160 is preferably concave in shape,thereby defining an interior space which may be used to house theelectronics (not shown) of power system 150. Cover 160 may include oneor more seams 162 that allow access to the interior space defined bycover 160. Receiver 168 releasably receives battery pack 155 a. A wire152 and plug 154 conductively couple battery pack 155 a to connector166, thereby providing an electrical circuit between rechargeablebattery pack 155 a and light strands 119, 121, 123, and 125 of lightingsystem 126.

[0044] The embodiment depicted in FIGS. 2A-2C is advantageous over theprior art in that it provides a number of useful functions. Umbrellaapparatus 111 is lighted by lighting system 126 which does not requirecontinuous access to a conventional AC wall outlet, while providing highintensity light. This allows umbrella apparatus 111 to be placed in arelatively remote lawn or garden locations that are away from, orsubstantially removed from, conventional AC power outlets. Duringdaylight hours, solar cells 135 provide a continuous trickle charge torecharge rechargeable battery pack 155 a, thereby reducing the frequencywith which battery pack 155 a must be replaced or recharged.Additionally, this embodiment is advantageous over the prior art in thatconventional rechargeable battery packs, which are commonly used withcordless power tools, may be utilized. If battery pack 155 a isinsufficiently charged illuminate light strands 119, 121, 123, and 125of light system 126, the user may simply replace battery pack 155 a withanother fully charged battery pack 155 a. In this manner, lightingsystem 126 of umbrella apparatus 111 may be energized conveniently, eventhough umbrella apparatus 111 may be located extremely remotely from anAC power outlet, such as in a garden patio, or on a boat dock. In thisembodiment, there is no need to use extension cords to charge analternate power system charger.

[0045] Referring now to FIGS. 3A-3C in the drawings, another embodimentof the present invention is illustrated. In this embodiment, an umbrellaapparatus 211 includes an umbrella portion 213, a pole portion 215, astand portion 218, and a base portion 220 adapted to house arechargeable power system 251. Umbrella apparatus 211 includes alighting system 226 and may include a motorized opening and closingsystem 240. Umbrella portion 213 is preferably retractable and may bemoved between a raised, or expanded open position, which is shown; and alowered, or retracted, closed position in which umbrella portion iscollapsed down about pole portion 215, as is conventional. A flexiblecanopy 217 is attached to and covers umbrella portion 215. Canopy 217 issupported by a plurality of rib members 219, 221, 223, and 225. Ribmembers 219, 221, 223, and 225 are preferably hingedly coupled to poleportion 215 at an upper portion of pole portion 215. An integrallighting system 226 is carried by at least one of rib members 219, 221,223, or 225. Lighting system 226 provides high intensity light toumbrella apparatus 211 and the surrounding area. In the embodiment ofFIGS. 3A-3C, lighting system 226 preferably utilizes a cold cathode tubewhich will be described in greater detail herein.

[0046] Lighting system 226 includes a plurality of light strands 227,229, 231, and 233 attached to rib members 219, 221, 223, and 225. Eachlight strand 227, 229, 231, and 233 includes electrical wiring 239 whichconductively couples a plurality of small cold cathode tube light bulbstogether for providing the high intensity light under canopy 217 and inthe area surrounding umbrella apparatus 211. A wiring ring 237 securesand locates electrical wiring 239 of light strands 227, 229, 231, and233, so that electrical wiring 239 may be passed through the hollowinterior of pole portion 215 to a power source, as will be described indetail below.

[0047] Umbrella apparatus 211 includes an optional opening and closingsystem 240 that aids in expanding umbrella portion 213 into the opencondition and retracting umbrella portion 213 into the closed condition.Opening and closing system 240 includes a cable system 241, a gear andpulley system 243 housed in a crank case 244, and a manual crank 245.Crank case 244 is preferably located on pole portion 215 such that crankcase 244 is accessible when umbrella portion 213 is in the fullyretracted position against pole portion 215. Cable system 241 is coupledbetween rib members 219, 221, 223, and 225 and gear and pulley system243, and is preferably disposed within the hollow interior of poleportion 215. Manual crank 245 is coupled to gear and pulley system 243so as to allow manual opening and closing of umbrella portion 213.

[0048] Opening and closing system 240 may be automated by the inclusionof an electric screw driver motor 249, or other similar relatively smalldiameter motor assembly, and one or more operational switches 247. Motor249 is preferably disposed within the hollow interior of pole portion215 and is coupled to gear and pulley system 243. Operational switches247 are preferably carried by crank case 244, and include one or moreswitches for controlling the operation of motor 249. With the inclusionof motor 249, a user may expand and retract umbrella portion 213 simplyby pressing the appropriate operational switch 247. This feature isparticularly advantageous when used with large umbrellas which may berelatively heavy and awkward to operate, or when the user lackssufficient strength to expand or retract umbrella portion 213.

[0049] Umbrella apparatus 211 includes a power system 250 having arechargeable power source 255. In this embodiment, power source 255 ispreferably adapted to be conductively coupled to and hosed within baseportion 220 and comprises a bundle of rechargeable batteries 255 a.Power system 250 provides electrical power to lighting system 226 andopening and closing system 240. An external power system charger andtransformer 251 is electrically coupled to power system 250 to aid inrepeatedly charging rechargeable batteries 255 a. An extension cord 261having terminals 265 allow external power system charger and transformer251 to be plugged into a conventional AC wall outlet. This allowsexternal power system charger and transformer 251 to receive powerdirectly from a conventional AC wall outlet in order to rechargerechargeable batteries 255 a.

[0050] In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention, an alternative power system charger 262 may be provided.Alternate power system charger 262 includes at least one solar cell 235carried by an upper cap portion 264. Solar cells 235 are conductivelycoupled to power system 250 via wires (not shown) that pass through thehollow interior of pole portion 215, thereby allowing solar cells 235 toprovide an electrical charge to recharge rechargeable batteries 255 a,provided sunlight falls upon solar cells 235. Because solar cells 235provide continuous recharging throughout the daylight hours, thefrequency with which batteries 255 a must be replaced or recharged maybe minimized. It is important to note that locating alternate powersystem charger 262 atop umbrella portion 213 is unique and advantageous,particularly when alternate power system charger 262 includes solarcells 235 or other types of solar energy collectors. Such locationlimits the visibility of alternate power system charger 262 and ensuresthat solar energy collection is maximized.

[0051] Stand portion 218 includes an upright shaft portion 270 having acentral aperture 272 that is adapted to receive pole portion 215 ofumbrella apparatus 211. A plurality of screw clamps 274 and 276 areprovided to secure pole portion 215 within shaft portion 270. A bottomportion 246 is provided to stabilize umbrella apparatus 211 whileumbrella apparatus 211 is installed within stand portion 218.

[0052] Base portion 220 includes a removable cylindrical sleeve 256, aremovable cover 260, and recessed portions 280 and 282. Sleeve 256 isconfigured to slip over the exterior of shaft portion 270, and includesa longitudinal slot 258 that allows access to screw clamps 274 and 276when sleeve 256 is placed over shaft portion 270. Slot 258 also allowsaccess to a connector 266 disposed in the lower portion of pole portion215 when sleeve 256 is placed over shaft portion 270. Connector 266 isconductively coupled to the wires from alternate power system charger262 and solar cells 235. Cover 260 is preferably concave in shape,thereby defining an interior space which may be used to house theelectronics (not shown) of power system 250. Cover 260 may include oneor more seams 262 that allow access to the interior space defined bycover 260. Recessed portion 280 releasably receives batteries 255 a, andrecessed portion 282 releasably receives external power system charger251. A wire 252 and plug 254 conductively couple batteries 255 a toconnector 266, thereby providing an electrical circuit betweenrechargeable batteries 255 a and light strands 219, 221, 223, and 225 oflighting system 226.

[0053] The embodiment depicted in FIGS. 3A-3C is advantageous over theprior art in that it provides a number of useful functions. Umbrellaapparatus 211 is lighted by lighting system 226 which does not requirecontinuous access to a conventional AC wall outlet, while providing highintensity light. This allows umbrella apparatus 211 to be placed in arelatively remote lawn or garden locations that are away from, orsubstantially removed from, conventional AC power outlets. Duringdaylight hours, solar cells 235 provide a continuous trickle charge torecharge rechargeable batteries 255 a, thereby reducing the frequencywith which batteries 255 a must be replaced or recharged. However, whenan electrical charge is needed, external power system charger 251 may beutilized to directly charge batteries 255 a. Of course, a conventionalextension cord may be used, thereby eliminating the need to moveumbrella apparatus 211 from its remote location to a location near an ACpower outlet.

[0054] Referring now to FIG. 4A in the drawings, the preferredembodiment of lighting systems 26, 126, and 226 of the present inventionis illustrated. In this embodiment, a plurality of lighting elements307, preferably cold cathode tube bulbs, are recessed into a rib member301. Rib member 301 is indicative of rib members 19, 21, 23, 25, 119,121, 123, 125, 219, 221, 223, and 225. As is shown, a cavity 303 isformed within rib 301. Cavity 303 is adapted to receive and hold lightbulb 307. A translucent material 305 extends along the entire length ofthe cavity 303 to protect bulbs 307 from damage and undesirable exposureto weather and other conditions. Translucent material 305 may have asmooth surface or be textured to accentuate or enhance the light frombulbs 307. Although only a single cold cathode tube bulb 307 isillustrated, it should be understood that there may be many bulbs 307spaced along the length of rib member 301 to illuminate the area underumbrella apparatus 11, 111, or 211. Rib member 301 includes a wiringchannel 309 configured to receive a wire 311 that conductively connectsall of the bulbs 307 installed in rib member 301, thereby forming anelectrical circuit between bulbs 307 and the rechargeable power source,such as power sources 50, 150, and 250. In this manner, recessedlighting, which is carried entirely within rib member 301 and is nototherwise exposed to the elements, is achieved.

[0055] Referring now to FIG. 4B in the drawings, an alternate embodimentof lighting systems 26, 126, and 226 of the present invention isillustrated. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 4A,with the exception that an integral cooling system 410 has been added.In this embodiment, a plurality of lighting elements 307, preferablycold cathode tube bulbs, are recessed into a rib member 301. Rib member301 is indicative of rib members 19, 21, 23, 25, 119, 121, 123, 125,219, 221, 223, and 225. Cooling system 410 comprises a misting meansthat provides a light mist to cool the area under umbrella apparatus 11,111, or 211. A cavity 403 is formed within rib member 401. Cavity 403 isadapted to receive and hold light bulb 407. A translucent material 405extends along the entire length of the cavity 403 to protect bulbs 407from damage and undesirable exposure to weather and other conditions.Translucent material 405 may have a smooth surface or be textured toaccentuate or enhance the light from bulbs 407. Although only a singlecold cathode tube bulb 407 is illustrated, it should be understood thatthere may be many bulbs 407 spaced along the length of rib member 401 toilluminate the area under umbrella apparatus 11, 111, or 211. Rib member401 includes a wiring channel 409 configured to receive a wire 411 thatconductively connects all of the bulbs 407 installed in rib member 401,thereby forming an electrical circuit between bulbs 407 and therechargeable power source, such as power sources 50, 150, and 250. Inthis manner, recessed lighting, which is carried entirely within ribmember 401 and is not otherwise exposed to the elements, is achieved.

[0056] A fluid supply channel 421 is provided in order to receive afluid tight hose which supplies water to a plurality of misting nozzles425 which generate mist 427 and 480. A fluid discharge channel 423 isprovided to carry a fluid tight hose which carries water from the hosein fluid supply channel 421 to misting nozzles 425. In this embodiment,umbrella apparatus should include a small reservoir (not shown) of wateror other water source, such as an inlet hose, and an electric pump topressurize and pump the water through cooling system 410. In thismanner, umbrella apparatus 11, 111, or 211 provides both light and acooling mist to those in close proximity.

[0057] Referring now to FIG. 4C in the drawings, another embodiment oflighting systems 26, 126, and 226 of the present invention isillustrated. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment of FIG. 4A,with the exception that a different integral cooling system 510 has beenadded. In this embodiment, a plurality of lighting elements 507,preferably cold cathode tube bulbs, are recessed into a rib member 501.Rib member 501 is indicative of rib members 19, 21, 23, 25, 119, 121,123, 125, 219, 221, 223, and 225. Cooling system 510 comprises a fanningmeans that provides a cool breeze under umbrella apparatus 11, 111, or211. A cavity 503 is formed within rib member 501. Cavity 503 is adaptedto receive and hold light bulb 507. A translucent material 505 extendsalong the entire length of the cavity 503 to protect bulbs 507 fromdamage and undesirable exposure to weather and other conditions.Translucent material 505 may have a smooth surface or be textured toaccentuate or enhance the light from bulbs 507. Although only a singlecold cathode tube bulb 507 is illustrated, it should be understood thatthere may be many bulbs 507 spaced along the length of rib member 501 toilluminate the area under umbrella apparatus 11, 111, or 211. Rib member501 includes a wiring channel 509 configured to receive a wire 511 thatconductively connects all of the bulbs 507 installed in rib member 501,thereby forming an electrical circuit between bulbs 507 and therechargeable power source, such as power sources 50, 150, and 250. Inthis manner, recessed lighting, which is carried entirely within ribmember 501 and is not otherwise exposed to the elements, is achieved.

[0058] A wiring conduit 520 is provided which routes electrical wiringfrom wire 511 to an electric motor 524 carried in a recessed cavity 522.Fanning means 528 and 580, such as fan blades, are carried by rotatingshafts 530 which are connected to motors 524. When energized, motors 524rotate fan blades 528 and 580, thereby providing a cooling breeze underumbrella apparatus 11, 111, and 211. A plurality of fan blade sets 528and 580 may be located at predetermined locations along the length ofrib member 501.

[0059] Referring now to FIG. 5A in the drawings, a block diagramrepresentation of the preferred embodiment of opening and closingsystems 40, 140, and 240 is illustrated. As is shown, a pulley system600 is coupled through gears 602 to an electric motor 604. A switch 606is electrically connected between a power supply 608 and electric motor604. Power supply 608 is indicative of rechargeable power systems 50,150, and 250. External power system charger 610 and solar charger 612are coupled to power supply 608 to recharge the rechargeable batteryelements. External power system charger 610 is indicative of externalpower system chargers 51 and 251. Solar charger 612 is indicative ofalternate power system chargers 62, 162, and 262. Mechanical actuationof switch 606 allows current to flow from power supply 608 to electricmotor 604. Motor 604 works through gears 602 to operate pulley 600,thereby opening and closing canopy 17, 117, or 217 of umbrella apparatus11, 111, or 211, respectively.

[0060] Referring now to FIG. 5B in the drawings, another embodiment ofthe opening and closing systems 40, 140, and 240 of the presentinvention is illustrated. In this embodiment, a wireless transmitter 708is utilized to transmit encoded signals and remotely communicate with awireless receiver 706 that is carried by umbrella apparatus 11, 111, or211, preferably near housings 44, 144, and 244. A decoder 704 isprovided to decode the encoded signals. As is conventional with suchreceivers and transmitters, transmitter 708 and receiver 706 may beadapted to be coded on a particular frequency or coding scheme whichenable a dedicated transmitter 708 to actuate a particular receiver 706.A decoder 704 coupled to an electrical switch 702 serves to allow forsuch identification. Switch 702 controls the application of electricalenergy from a power supply 710 to an electric motor 700. Power supply710 is indicative of rechargeable power systems 50, 150, and 250. Motor700 is indicative of motors 49, 149, and 249. In this manner, amotorized retraction system may be actuated remotely utilizing wirelesstransmitter 708.

[0061] Referring now to FIGS. 6-9 in the drawings, the preferredembodiments of the umbrella apparatus of the present invention areillustrated. In these embodiments, the rechargeable power source andsolar recharging system are mounted atop the pole portion of theumbrella apparatus above the canopy. One concept which runs throughoutthe embodiments depicted in FIGS. 6-9 is the utilization of a “powerunit.” This concept involves the placement of a unitary structure at adefined location relative to the umbrella. For example, in theembodiments of FIGS. 6-9, the power unit is shown at a top locationdirectly above the umbrella apparatus, and secured to the pole portionwith a threaded coupling. FIG. 6 depicts a top-mounted power unit and acold cathode tube lighting system. FIG. 7 depicts a top-mounted powerunit with a fanning means cooling system. FIG. 8 depicts a top-mountedpower unit with mist producing cooling system. FIG. 9 depicts atop-mounted power unit with an automated opening and closing system.

[0062] Although FIGS. 6-9 depict power units with a single electricalsystem, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments, onecould mix and match these electrical subassemblies such that a singlepower unit provides electrical power to two or more subassemblies. Forexample, an umbrella apparatus may include a lighting system and eitherone or both of the cooling systems described above. Alternatively, anumbrella apparatus may include a lighting system, a cooling system, andan automated opening and closing system as described herein. In thismanner, the umbrella apparatus of the present invention is modular suchthat the different subsystems can be easily mixed and matched.

[0063] This modularity allows one to manufacture and sell aftermarketkits which can be installed and interchanged by the umbrella owners.Such kits may include a power unit and one or more of the subsystems,such as a lighting system and/or a cooling system and/or an automatedopening and closing system. Because the power unit is relativelyself-contained, little interaction is required to attach the power unitto an umbrella apparatus. Alternatively, this modularity in designfacilitates the mass manufacture of umbrellas, allowing the electricalsystem to be manufactured by one factory, and the umbrella systems,which do not include electrical systems, to be manufactured by adifferent factory. The parts can then be brought together in an assemblyarea and assembled together.

[0064] Referring now specifically to FIG. 6, an umbrella apparatus 701is illustrated. As is shown, a power unit 725 is provided for connectionto the uppermost portion of umbrella apparatus 701. In this embodiment,a cold cathode tube light subassembly 721 is provided for connection ata different location to umbrella apparatus 701. Power unit 725 includesa solar collector 727 at its uppermost portion. Solar collector 727 ispreferably carried by a top portion 703 of power unit 725. A bottomportion 705 of power unit 725 defines an interior battery compartment707. Additionally, power unit 725 carries a coupling mechanism 729 toallow coupling between power unit 725 and a pole portion 719 of umbrellaapparatus 701, pole portion 719 being adapted at an upper end 711,preferably with threads 713, to releasably receive power unit 725. A topcap 715 hingedly connects pole portion 719 to a canopy 717. Cold cathodetube light subassembly 721 is coupled at a desired location underneathcanopy 717 to provide high intensity light in the area surroundingumbrella apparatus 701. Cold cathode tube light subassembly 721 isconductively coupled to power unit 725 by wiring 709 that passes throughthe hollow interior of pole portion 719. Such light allows users toread, play games, or perform other leisure activities that require arelatively high intensity light. The electrical components of umbrellaapparatus 701 are entirely independent of any household electricalsystem. The power source, such as power sources 50, 150, and 250,carried by power unit 725 is utilized to energize cold cathode tubelight subassembly 721. During daylight hours, solar energy is collectedby solar panel 727 and is converted and utilized to recharge therechargeable power source which is maintained within battery compartment707.

[0065] Cold cathode tube light subassembly 721 is described below inmore detail below. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art,other low power lighting systems may be used instead of cold cathodetube light sub assembly 721. For example, an LED or fluorescent lightingsubassembly may be utilized instead. LED and fluorescent systemsdesigned for use with solar and low voltage lighting are known in theart. Such alternative lighting sources may be easily used with thepresent system in manners which are recognized by those skilled in theart. Implementation of LED, fluorescent, or other alternate lightsources instead of cold cathode tube light subassembly 721 is astraightforward and need not be further described in detail.

[0066] Referring now specifically to FIG. 7 in the drawings, an umbrellaapparatus 801 is illustrated. As is shown, a power unit 825 is providedfor connection to the uppermost portion of umbrella apparatus 801. Inthis embodiment, a cooling system 821 comprising a fanning means 831 isprovided for connection at a different location to umbrella apparatus801. Power unit 825 includes a solar collector 827 at its uppermostportion. Solar collector 827 is preferably carried by a top portion 803of power unit 825. A bottom portion 805 of power unit 825 defines aninterior battery compartment 807. Additionally, power unit 825 carries acoupling mechanism 829 to allow coupling between power unit 825 and apole portion 819 of umbrella apparatus 801, pole portion 819 beingadapted at an upper end 811, preferably with threads 813, to releasablyreceive power unit 825. A top cap 815 hingedly connects pole portion 819to a canopy 817. Cooling system 821 is coupled at a desired locationunderneath canopy 817 to provide a cooling breeze in the areasurrounding umbrella apparatus 801. Cooling system 821 is conductivelycoupled to power unit 825 by wiring 809 that passes through the hollowinterior of pole portion 819. The electrical components of umbrellaapparatus 801 are entirely independent of any household electricalsystem. The power source, such as power sources 50, 150, and 250,carried by power unit 825 is utilized to energize cooling system 821.During daylight hours, solar energy is collected by solar panel 827 andis converted and utilized to recharge the rechargeable power sourcewhich is maintained within battery compartment 807.

[0067] Referring now specifically to FIG. 8 in the drawings, an umbrellaapparatus 901 is illustrated. As is shown, a power unit 955 is providedfor connection to the uppermost portion of umbrella apparatus 901. Inthis embodiment, a cooling system 921 comprising a misting system 931 isprovided for connection at a different location to umbrella apparatus901. Power unit 955 includes a solar collector 957 at its uppermostportion. Solar collector 957 is preferably carried by a top portion 903of power unit 955. A bottom portion 905 of power unit 955 defines aninterior battery compartment 907. Additionally, power unit 955 carries acoupling mechanism 959 to allow coupling between power unit 955 and apole portion 919 of umbrella apparatus 901, pole portion 919 beingadapted at an upper end 911, preferably with threads 913, to releasablyreceive power unit 955. A top cap 915 hingedly connects pole portion 919to a canopy 917. The electrical components of umbrella apparatus 901 areentirely independent of any household electrical system. The powersource, such as power sources 50, 150, and 250, carried by power unit955 is utilized to energize cooling system 921. During daylight hours,solar energy is collected by solar panel 957 and is converted andutilized to recharge the rechargeable power source which is maintainedwithin battery compartment 907.

[0068] Cooling system 921 is coupled at a desired location underneathcanopy 917 to provide a cooling mist in the area surrounding umbrellaapparatus 901. Cooling system 921 is conductively coupled to power unit955 by wiring 909 that passes through the hollow interior of poleportion 919. Cooling system 921 is a misting system comprising areservoir 925, or other water source, a pump 927, water feed lines 929,and mist nozzles 923. Pump 927 pressurizes and pumps the water fromreservoir 925 through water feed lines 929 and out of mist nozzles 923,which are located at selected spaced intervals under canopy 917, at aselected flow rate. Reservoir 925 may be a conventional ice cooler, suchthat the mist is chilled water.

[0069] Referring now specifically to FIG. 9 in the drawings, an umbrellaapparatus 1001 is illustrated. As is shown, a power unit 1055 isutilized to provide electrical power to an automated opening and closingsystem 1050. Power unit 1055 includes a solar collector 1027 at itsuppermost portion. Solar collector 1027 is preferably carried by a topportion 1003 of power unit 1055. A bottom portion 1005 of power unit1055 defines an interior battery compartment 1007. Additionally, powerunit 1055 carries a coupling mechanism 1029 to allow coupling betweenpower unit 1055 and a pole portion 1019 of umbrella apparatus 1001, poleportion 1019 being adapted at an upper end 1011, preferably with threads1013, to releasably receive power unit 1055. A top cap 1015 hingedlyconnects pole portion 1019 to a canopy 1017. The electrical componentsof umbrella apparatus 1001 are entirely independent of any householdelectrical system. Automated opening and closing system 1050 isconductively coupled to power unit 1055 by wiring 1009 that passesthrough the hollow interior of pole portion 1019. The power source, suchas power sources 50, 150, and 250, carried by power unit 1055 isutilized to energize automated opening and closing system 1050. Duringdaylight hours, solar energy is collected by solar panel 1027 and isconverted and utilized to recharge the rechargeable power source whichis maintained within battery compartment 1007.

[0070] Automated opening and closing system 1050 is carried at theuppermost portion of pole portion 1019. Opening and closing system 1050includes a motor 1021, a transmission 1023, a line winding shaft 1025, apulley system 1031, and a cable system 1033. These components cooperateto open and close the umbrella in response to the receipt of a commandsignal. The command signal may be supplied by the actuation of a switch(see FIGS. 1-3) carried on pole portion 1019, or it may be a wirelesssignal received from a paired transmitter receiver system (see FIG. 5B).

[0071] Referring now to FIG. 10 in the drawings, a schematic of the coldcathode tube lighting system of the present invention is illustrated.The invention is to utilize in combination a cold cathode lamp, a powerinverter which supplies alternating current to the cold cathode lamp, arechargeable DC battery pack, and a solar collector. This is depicted insimplified form in FIG. 10. This may be utilized in any outdoorapplication in which there is no easy or convenient access to householdpower. The system is entirely self-contained and does not require anyhousehold power for operation, or charging. As is shown, the coldcathode tube lighting system 3000 includes a cold cathode lamp 3001 thatis supplied with AC power from a power inverter 3007. A DC battery pack3003 includes rechargeable batteries that supply DC current to powerinverter 3007. A solar collector 3005 is provided to recharge thebatteries contained within DC power pack 3003.

[0072] A cold cathode tube is a lamp that produces light by the passageof an electric current through a vapor or gas maintained within a tube.A cold cathode tube does not require any heating above ambienttemperature to produce light. The tube is phosphor coated on its innersurface, and thus may emit various colored light. In most cases, coldcathode tube lamps are low-pressure mercury vapor lamps. Such lamps usea 253.7 nanometer ultraviolet emission from mercury vapor excited by anelectrical discharge through the lamp to charge the phosphors maintainedon the wall of the lamp.

[0073] The optimum operating temperature for cold cathode tube isapproximately 40 degrees Celsius, although Applicant believes that theselamps can be produced in a manner to reliably provide outdoor lightingin temperatures as cold as 15 degrees Fahrenheit. While the cold cathodetube does not require heating, the output of the lamp does vary basedupon the ambient temperature. At room temperature, the initial output ofa lamp is only about seventy percent of its steady state value at 40degrees Celsius. In contrast, its output is only 25 percent when thelamp is started at zero degrees Celsius. Cold starts do requireadditional voltage from the power source to ensure reliable operation.However, the number of lamp “starts” has no adverse effect on the lamp.This is not true for fluorescent lamps, which degrade over time due tothe number of “starts.” Cold cathode tubes may be utilized to supply awhite light output.

[0074] In the preferred embodiment, a cold cathode tube manufactured byNanjing Lampus Electronics Company, Ltd. is utilized. Specifically, alamp type CFL-20 is utilized. This has an inner diameter of 1.5millimeters. The tube length is variable, and may be anywhere in therange of 50 millimeters to 30 millimeters in overall length. The tube isadapted to operate on four milliamps of tube current. The tube voltageis in the range of 200 to 750 Volts. The average brightness of thisparticular tube is 40,000 cd/m².

[0075] Another advantage of cold cathode tubes is that the tubes can bevery thin in diameter. For example, in the preferred implementation, thecold cathode tube may be one or two millimeters in diameter. A coldcathode tube can be bent into any shape and can be formed in very longlengths, such as several feet long. Thus, cold cathode tubes providegreater light output per foot versus conventional lighting.

[0076] Another significant advantage of cold cathode tubes it that theyhave relatively long lamp life. It is not unusual to have lamp liveswhich are thirty to forty thousand hours of use. In other words, thesecold cathode tubes have, for all practical purposes, an infinite lifespan.

[0077] They are low power devices. They do not generate a lot of heat.They provide high lumen output. For these reasons, fewer batteries areneeded to drive the cold cathode ray tube, and smaller solar cell panelsmay be utilized to recharge the batteries. In other words, relativelysmall form factors can be achieved because the solar cells, thebatteries, and the bulbs can be relatively small in size.

[0078] The present invention can be implemented on a small, medium, orlarge scale so the solar cell panels and batteries may be moved up insize to either provide greater light output or to provide for a longeruseful life.

[0079] Additionally, the present invention may be considered to satisfythree separate and distinct outdoor lighting applications, all of whichmay be incorporated into the umbrella apparatus of the presentinvention.

[0080] The first application is that of a “special purpose light,” or“task light,” such as for security applications. These special purposelights would provide very light output, for a relatively short duration.One example would be the utilization of the cold cathode ray tube toprovide extremely high light output for a very small area for a veryshort time, all in response to detection of motion in a particular area.For example, a system can be configured to detect motion in a doorway,motion in a yard, motion in a driveway, or the like. The brightness canbe provided which can be far in excess of 40,000 cd/m² . For example,100,000 to 200,000 cd/m² may be provided for a very small area for avery short duration. For example, the duration may be a few minutes toten minutes.

[0081] The second application requires a medium amount of light output,but requires longer periods of operation or wider areas of coverage. Forexample, the light assembly provided with the umbrella provides arelatively high light output, such as in the range of 20,000 to 100,000cd/m², in order to allow one to read, play games, operate a computer, ordo needlework under the umbrella. Preferably, the battery pack andassociated solar panel is sufficient to allow the system to operatecontinuously for a time interval in the range of 8-12 hours.Additionally, and preferably, the solar panel should be of the size andoutput which is sufficient to fully recharge the battery pack during thedaylight hours.

[0082] A third application requires a lower level of light intensity. Agood example would be lawn, patio, walkway, or landscape lighting. Onedoes not ordinarily expect to be able to read or do intricate work underthis type of lighting. In contrast, all that is expected is that areasonable amount of light be provided to allow one to walk safelythrough an area. This type of task may require brightness in the rangeof 6,000 cd/m² to 60,000 cd/m².

[0083] Referring now to FIG. 11 in the drawings, a block diagramrepresentation of the application of the present invention to a lawnlighting scenario is illustrated. In this scenario, a plurality of solarpanels 4001, 4003, 4005, and 4007 are connected together in series.Preferably, solar panels 4001, 4003, 4005, and 4007 are manufactured bySiemens and comprise mono-crystal solar panels, each providing 1.5Volts. The total current for the array of solar panels is about 80milliamps. The current from solar panels 4001, 4003, 4005, and 4007 ispassed through a diode 4009 and then to a battery pack 4011. Batterypack 4011 includes a plurality of batteries 4013, 4015, and 4017, forexample three AA batteries. In alternative embodiments, as few as twobatteries may be used. As is shown, each battery is a 1.2 Volt NickelCadmium battery. They collectively provide 700 milliamp hours of power.

[0084] The output of DC battery pack 4011 is provided as an input to aninverter 4019. Inverter 4019 receives 4.8 Volts DC in and produces as anoutput of 800 Volts rms AC at 40 Hertz. The total current of the outputis 4-6 milliamps.

[0085] This is provided to the cathode of a cold cathode ray tube lamp4021. The current passes through the vapor maintained within coldcathode ray tube lamp 4021 and causes electrons to be stripped from thegas. These electrons collide with the phosphorus coating on the interiorsurface of cold cathode ray tube lamp 4021, thereby emitting light.

[0086] Although the invention has been described with reference to aparticular embodiment, this description is not meant to be construed ina limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments aswell as alternative embodiments of the invention will become apparent topersons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of theinvention. It is therefore contemplated that the appended claims willcover any such modifications or embodiments that fall within the scopeof the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. An umbrella apparatus comprising: a base supportportion; a pole portion coupled to the base support portion; a canopyportion hingedly coupled to the pole portion; a rechargeable electricalpower system for providing electrical power to the umbrella apparatus;and a solar energy system carried by the pole portion above the canopyportion, the solar energy system being adapted to collect solar energyand convert the solar energy into electrical energy, the solar energysystem being conductively coupled to the rechargeable electrical powersystem, such that the solar energy collected and converted intoelectrical energy recharges the rechargeable electrical power system. 2.The umbrella apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the rechargeableelectrical power system and the solar energy system are both carried bya housing mounted on the pole portion above the canopy portion.
 3. Theumbrella apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the rechargeableelectrical power system is carried by the base support portion and thesolar energy system is carried by a housing mounted on the pole portionabove the canopy portion.
 4. The umbrella apparatus according to claim1, wherein the rechargeable electrical power system is powered by atleast one rechargeable battery.
 5. The umbrella apparatus according toclaim 1, further comprising: an electrical charging system forrecharging the rechargeable electrical power system, the electricalcharging system being adapted to receive power from an AC power outlet.6. The umbrella apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: alighting system carried by the canopy portion, the lighting system beingconductively coupled to and powered by the rechargeable electrical powersystem.
 7. The umbrella apparatus according to claim 6, wherein thelighting system comprises: a plurality of rib members coupled to thecanopy portion; and a plurality of cold cathode tube elements carried bythe rib members, each cold cathode tube element being conductivelycoupled to and powered by the rechargeable electrical power source. 8.The umbrella apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the lighting systemcomprises: a plurality of rib members coupled to the canopy portion; anda plurality of light emitting diode elements carried by the rib members,each light emitting diode element being conductively coupled to andpowered by the rechargeable electrical power source.
 9. The umbrellaapparatus according to claim 6, wherein the lighting system comprises: aplurality of rib members coupled to the canopy portion; and a pluralityof fluorescent light elements carried by the rib members, eachfluorescent light element being conductively coupled to and powered bythe rechargeable electrical power source.
 10. The umbrella apparatusaccording to claim 1, further comprising: an electromechanical openingand closing system for opening and closing the canopy portion, theelectromechanical opening and closing system being conductively coupledto and powered by the rechargeable electrical power system.
 11. Theumbrella apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the electromechanicalopening and closing system comprises: an electric motor carried by thepole portion; a control system for controlling the electric motor; agear system coupled to the electric motor; and a cable and pulley systemcoupled to the gear system and the canopy portion; wherein the openingand closing of the canopy portion is achieved by the electric motor inresponse to selective operation of the control system.
 12. The umbrellaapparatus according to claim 11, wherein the control system comprises: areceiver conductively coupled to the electric motor; a remotetransmitter for transmitting an encoded signal to the receiver; and adecoder conductively coupled to the receiver for decoding the encodedsignal fro the transmitter.
 13. The umbrella apparatus according toclaim 1, further comprising: a cooling system carried by the canopyportion, the cooling system being conductively coupled to and powered bythe rechargeable electrical power system.
 14. The umbrella apparatusaccording to claim 13, wherein the cooling system comprises: at leastone electric fan coupled to the canopy portion, each electric fan beingconductively coupled to and powered by the rechargeable electrical powersystem.
 15. The umbrella apparatus according to claim 13, wherein thecooling system comprises: a fluid reservoir operably associated with theumbrella apparatus; at least one mist nozzle coupled to the canopyportion, each mist nozzle being in fluid communication with the fluid; aconduit creating fluid communication between the fluid reservoir andeach mist nozzle; and a pump for pumping the fluid from the reservoirthrough each mist nozzle.
 16. An umbrella apparatus comprising: a basesupport portion; a pole portion coupled to the base support portion; acanopy portion hingedly coupled to the pole portion; a rechargeableelectrical power system for providing electrical power to the umbrellaapparatus; a solar energy system carried by the pole portion above thecanopy portion, the solar energy system being adapted to collect solarenergy and convert the solar energy into electrical energy, the solarenergy system being conductively coupled to the rechargeable electricalpower system, such that the solar energy collected and converted intoelectrical energy recharges the rechargeable electrical power system;and a combination of two or more of the following modular systems: alighting system carried by the canopy portion; an electromechanicalopening and closing system for opening and closing the canopy portion;or a cooling system; wherein each modular system is configured to beinterchanged with each other, each modular system being conductivelycoupled to and powered by the rechargeable electrical power system. 17.The umbrella apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the lightingsystem comprises: a plurality of rib members coupled to the canopyportion; and a plurality of cold cathode tube elements carried by therib members, each cold cathode tube element being conductively coupledto and powered by the rechargeable electrical power source.
 18. Theumbrella apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the lighting systemcomprises: a plurality of rib members coupled to the canopy portion; anda plurality of light emitting diode elements carried by the rib members,each light emitting diode element being conductively coupled to andpowered by the rechargeable electrical power source.
 19. The umbrellaapparatus according to claim 16, wherein the cooling system comprises: afluid reservoir operably associated with the umbrella apparatus; atleast one mist nozzle coupled to the canopy portion, each mist nozzlebeing in fluid communication with the fluid; a conduit creating fluidcommunication between the fluid reservoir and each mist nozzle; and apump for pumping the fluid from the reservoir through each mist nozzle.20. The umbrella apparatus according to claim 16, wherein theelectromechanical opening and closing system comprises: an electricmotor carried by the pole portion; a control system for controlling theelectric motor; a gear system coupled to the electric motor; and a cableand pulley system coupled to the gear system and the canopy portion;wherein the opening and closing of the canopy portion is achieved by theelectric motor in response to selective operation of the control system.